Pelini is preparing the 22nd-ranked Cornhuskers' preparation for the Dec. 29 Alamo Bowl against Michigan State, not knowing if it will be his last game at Nebraska.

Pelini said he won't let his uncertain future distract him from his current task.

"I'm a professional, and this is what I was hired to do," Pelini said. "You have to fight through tough situations and have enough resolve to take care of business. If you can't, you're not going to be successful. Someone's going to pass you by."

Pelini, a nine-year NFL assistant before coming to Nebraska last December as defensive coordinator, said he hasn't called anyone for advice on how to operate as a head coach.

"I know what it takes to run a football team," Pelini said. "You're organized, you do things the right way, you have your philosophies, and you implement them as you see fit."

Pelini said he appreciates the support he's gotten from fans who have called for him to be hired as Frank Solich's successor.

He also has strong backing from the players.

Linebacker Demorrio Williams said Pelini has brought energy to a defensive unit that had languished last season.

"I like him and the whole defensive staff because they carry themselves with a swagger, and I like that," Williams said. "I think one day he will be a great head coach. He's a young guy and he knows the game."

NOTRE DAME: Notre Dame renewed its television contract with NBC, agreeing to a five-year deal worth about $9 million a year.

STANFORD: Defensive tackle Amon Gordon will skip his senior year and enter the NFL draft.

MOUNT UNION: Receiver Randell Knapp and offensive lineman Larry Kinnard were named to the Little All America team.